Two individuals believed to be of interest have been taken into custody following a series of overdoses that resulted in multiple fatalities in Austin, Texas, according to Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS).
ATCEMS has responded to approximately 70 suspected overdoses as of Wednesday, with the possibility of more cases emerging as the week progresses. While not confirming that all eight deaths were opioid-related, ATCEMS stated that these fatalities were suspected to be linked to opiates.
The emergency response team reported 37 overdoses on Monday, 27 on Tuesday, and seven on Wednesday, indicating a concerning trend in the community. Assistant Police Chief Eric Fitzgerald expressed concern over a lethal batch of illicit narcotics circulating in Austin during a press conference on Tuesday.
In response to the surge in overdoses, ATCEMS, along with other agencies and organizations like Texas Harm Reduction Alliance, deployed to distribute Narcan, an opioid overdose reversal medication. More than 400 doses were distributed to combat the overdoses, resulting in a decline in numbers over the course of a few days.
Texas Harm Reduction Alliance also distributed over 100 doses of Narcan on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of educating individuals on the risks of overdose and the availability of life-saving measures like Narcan.
The majority of overdose incidents originated in downtown Austin before spreading to other areas, prompting City EMS Captain Christa Stedman to suspect a new batch of dangerous substances in circulation. The APD Narcotics Support Unit is actively pursuing leads to apprehend others involved in the distribution of illicit drugs in connection with this incident.
While details about the detained suspects have not been released, there may be additional arrests in the future. For those seeking help with mental health or substance use disorders, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline offers free, confidential assistance in English and Spanish 24/7. Contact 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit www.samhsa.gov for more information.
